Apple says several antivirus apps necessary to protect Macs

In the past, Apple has been quick to point out that Macs have fewer virus …

For a long time, OS X has been portrayed by both Apple and by Mac users as less susceptible to viruses than Windows. Apple's advertisements and support documents are also a bit hesitant to mention the v-word, but the company recently updated the Apple Support article on antivirus utilities with a bit of a revised stance. The revised article was spotted by The Mac Observer, and now says that Apple "encourages the widespread use of multiple antivirus utilities."

Contrary to popular belief, there certainly are Mac viruses out there like the RSPlug trojan, but Windows viruses are more prevalent and a bit easier to get. But given Apple's previous line on antivirus software, the fact that the company is recommending the use of multiple applications on one machine is a bit surprising. More antivirus applications apparently mean more hurdles for virus writers, so Apple recommends three antivirus utilities. The applications are Intego VirusBarrier, Symantec Norton Antivirus, and McAfee VirusScan, the first two of which retail on the Apple Store for $70 and $50 ($30 with rebate) respectively.

Since Macs haven't suddenly become substantially more prone to viruses, my guess is that Apple is just covering its bases with this article update. A variety of recent lawsuits have proven that people like to sue Apple for pretty much anything, including statements the company makes about the performance of its products. Now, if a Mac owner gets a virus and claims they didn't think it was possible, Apple can at least point to the article. Following the letter of the article and dropping $100 on antivirus software probably isn't entirely necessary, though; just don't try to sue Apple if you get a virus.